Composite Technician for Autonomous Maritime USVs

Saildrone; Alameda (CA); On-site; USD 41,000 - 58,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Generous Time Off

Comprehensive Health Coverage

Shared Ownership in the Mission

401(k) retirement savings

Professional development reimbursement

Relocation support

Job summary

Saildrone seeks a Composites Technician to join Production in Alameda, CA. You will translate engineering designs into production-ready, high-performance composite structures for USVs while upholding quality and safety standards.

You will collaborate with Engineering, Manufacturing, and Quality teams in a fast-paced environment, performing laminate, mold, and tooling tasks with precision.

Qualifications

• 1+ years of experience in composites manufacturing, boatbuilding, aerospace, automotive, or related industries.
• Hands-on experience with prepreg, infusion, and wet/vacuum bag lamination techniques. Proficiency in mixing and applying epoxy resins, fairing compounds, and industrial coatings.
• Ability to read and interpret technical drawings and work instructions.
• Comfortable working independently or as part of a team in a production environment.
• Proficiency with hand and power tools used in composite fabrication.
• Ability to work in physically demanding environments and safely use required PPE.

Responsibilities

• Composite Fabrication: Manufacture high-performance composite parts using prepreg, infusion, and wet/vacuum bag lamination to achieve design specifications and production targets.
• Technical Interpretation: Interpret and execute against engineering drawings and ply books, ensuring all components meet strict dimensional and structural requirements.
• Chemical & Material Handling: Be accountable for the precise mixing and application of epoxy resins, fairing compounds, and industrial coatings, maintaining the highest standards for chemical safety and material traceability.
• Tooling & Mold Support: Carry out moldmaking and toolmaking activities to support R&D prototypes, including the use of CNC ply cutters and specialized shop equipment.
• Quality Inspection & Rework: Monitor for laminating defects (voids, delamination, bridging), taking action to rework and fair surfaces to ensure adherence to cosmetic and structural quality standards.
• Rigging & Shop Operations: Work closely with the Production Lead to manage heavy material moves, including rigging and lifting operations for large-scale hull and wing components.
• Workplace Discipline (5S): Adhere to established SOPs and safety protocols while maintaining an organized, clean-room environment to prevent material contamination.

Skills

Reading technical drawings

Manual dexterity

Physical stamina

Teamwork / independence

PPE safety

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

CNC ply cutters

Shop equipment

Job description

Saildrone seeks a Composites Technician to join Production in Alameda, CA. You will translate engineering designs into production-ready, high-performance composite structures for USVs while upholding quality and safety standards.

You will collaborate with Engineering, Manufacturing, and Quality teams in a fast-paced environment, performing laminate, mold, and tooling tasks with precision.